FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pikes Peak State College Ensures Uninterrupted Education for Military Students During Government Shutdown

Colorado Springs, CO. Pikes Peak State College (PPSC) has announced comprehensive measures to support military students who may be affected by the potential government shutdown. The college is committed to ensuring that active-duty service members can continue their education without interruption, regardless of federal funding delays.

"At PPSC, we believe that actions matter when it comes to being truly military-friendly," said Paul DeCecco, Director of Military and Veterans (MVP) Programs. "We're prepared to step in and provide financial support to our military students. We’ll award scholarships to service members who have their approved Tuition Assistance Requests canceled due to a government shutdown."

The college has already identified students currently enrolled in upcoming terms who could lose their Department of Defense Tuition Assistance funding, representing over $20,000 in educational benefits. In response, PPSC has allocated institutional scholarship funds to cover tuition for these affected students if a continuing resolution is not approved.

Key elements of PPSC's support plan include:
• Proactive outreach to potentially affected students, advising them not to drop classes
• Institutional scholarships to replace canceled Tuition Assistance funding
• Alternative classroom locations if base facilities become inaccessible
• Continued coordination with Army and Air Force/Space Force education centers

While Department of Defense education assistance may be impacted, VA Education benefits should continue uninterrupted due to their funding structure, though VA helplines may experience reduced staffing.

The MVP team will begin contacting students on October 1st if a shutdown occurs, reassuring them that the college will provide a scholarship to all students who have their Tuition Assistance canceled.

This response reflects PPSC's ongoing commitment to military and veteran students, demonstrating why the institution has earned recognition as "Military Friendly" and "Best for Vets."

About Pikes Peak State College
Established in 1968 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Pikes Peak offers associate degrees, certificates in career and technical fields and four bachelors’ degrees. With four campuses, various off- campus locations, two military education centers, and hundreds of online classes, PPSC provides access to a quality, affordable and flexible education to more than 17,000 students annually with both credit and non- credit classes.

MEDIA CONTACT
Matt Radcliffe
Executive Director of Marketing and Communications, Pikes Peak State College 719-726-0538, matt.radcliffe@pikespeak.edu